Pecularities of the Romanies' Way of Life
Pecularities of the Romanies' Way of Life

Summary/Abstract: The basic characteristic of the Romanies is their nomadic way of life, their belief in magic and a specific way of dressing. The cultural gap is reflected in the culture of poverty. The Romanies are not only poverty-stricken in the economic sense but in the cultural as well. They all share a characteristic feeling of marginality and helplessness; they also share a powerful orientation toward the present (the survival strategy) as well as a small ability to put off the gratification. Very often the Romanies' way of life is characterized by the feeling of resignation and helplessness. It is evident that the Romanies are excluded beside being outside the main institutions of the global society. The culture of poverty takes on the power of culture since its main traits are the guide as well as the framework for action, thinking and acting. A view of life is different when taken from the palace than from the tent. Such a pattern as well as a way of life pass from one generation to another and thus the poverty culture is kept permanently alive.

• Details
• Contents